Absorbent article having a lotioned topsheet

ABSTRACT

A diaper containing a liquid pervious topsheet coated with a lotion composition is disclosed. The lotion composition reduces the adherence of BM to the skin of the wearer, thereby improving the ease of BM clean up. The lotion composition comprises a plastic or fluid emollient such as mineral oil or petrolatum, an immobilizing agent such as a fatty alcohol or paraffin wax to immobilize the emollient on the surface of the diaper topsheet, and optionally a hydrophilic surfactant to improve wettability of the coated topsheet. Because the emollient is substantially immobilized on the surface of the topsheet, less lotion is required to impart the desired therapeutic or protective lotion coating benefits.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This application relates to absorbent articles such as diapers,training pants, adult incontinence devices, and the like. Moreparticularly, the present invention relates to absorbent articles havinga lotion coating on the outer surface of the topsheet that istransferable to the wearer's skin by normal contact and wearer motionand/or body heat. The lotions disclosed in the present invention reducethe adherence of BM to the skin of the wearer, thereby improving theease of BM clean up.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Many types of disposable absorbent products, such as diapers, areavailable that have a high capacity for absorbing urine. Disposableproducts of this type generally comprise some sort of fluid-permeabletopsheet material, an absorbent core, and a fluid-impermeable backsheetmaterial. Although these types of absorbent structures may be highlyefficient for the absorption of fluids, they cannot absorb bowelmovements (i.e., hereinafter referred to as “BM”). Typically, the BM istrapped between the outer surface of the fluid-permeable topsheet andthe skin of the wearer, much of it adhering to the wearer's skin.

[0003] To prevent BM from adhering to the wearer's skin, the caregiveroften applies protective or “repellent” products such as vaseline ormineral oil to the buttocks and anal region before placing the absorbentarticle on the wearer. This procedure usually involves the caregiver'spouring of the oil or lotion, for example, in one of their hands,rubbing both hands together to distribute the substance thereon and thenwiping the same on the skin of the infant. To eliminate the need forthis wasteful, messy, and easily forgotten procedure, there have beennumerous previous attempts to prepare absorbent articles which contain aprotective or therapeutic skin care substance on the topsheet.

[0004] One substance that has been applied as a lotion to diaperproducts to impart a soothing, protective coating is mineral oil.Mineral oil (also known as liquid petrolatum) is a mixture of variousliquid hydrocarbons obtained by distilling the high-boiling (i.e.,300°-390° C.) fractions in petroleum. Mineral oil is liquid at ambienttemperatures, e.g. 20°-25° C. As a result, mineral oil is relativelyfluid and mobile, even when applied to diaper topsheets.

[0005] Because mineral oil is fluid and mobile at ambient temperatures,it tends not to remain localized on the surface of the topsheet, butinstead migrates through the topsheet into the interior of the diaper.Accordingly, relatively high levels of mineral oil need to be applied tothe topsheet to provide the desired therapeutic or protective coatinglotion benefits. This leads not only to increased costs for theselotioned diaper products, but other detrimental effects as well.

[0006] One of these detrimental effects is a decrease in the fluidhandling properties as high levels of mineral oil tend to block thetopsheet openings. Also, as mineral oil migrates to the interior of thediaper, it tends to act as a hydrophobic additive, thus decreasing theabsorbency of the underlying absorbent core, if one is used. Thisdecrease in absorbency becomes more pronounced as the level of mineraloil applied is increased.

[0007] Even without increasing its level, the tendency of mineral oil tomigrate once applied has other detrimental effects. For example, theapplied mineral oil can transfer to, into and through the packaging orwrapper material for the lotioned diaper product. This can create theneed for barrier-type packaging or wrapper films to avoid smearing orother leakage of mineral oil from the diaper product.

[0008] Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide lotioned diaperproducts that: (1) have desirable therapeutic or protective coatinglotion benefits (2) do not require relatively high levels of coatingsthat are liquid at room temperature (e.g., mineral oil) (3) do notadversely affect the absorbency of the diaper product; and (4) do notrequire special wrapping or barrier materials for packaging.

[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 3,585,998 to Hayford et al. teaches a disposablebaby diaper, an interior liner of which carries an array ofpressure-rupturable capsules containing baby oil. The patent teachesthat it is desirable to break the capsules prior to using the diaper byapplying pressure with such household items as a rolling pin, hand iron,etc. The same principle of pressure-rupturable capsules is used in U.S.Pat. No. 3,464,413 to Goldfarb et al. for making bandages capable ofdelivering a medicinal material to an injury. Articles disclosed by bothpatents have a serious drawback. Namely, unless the capsules areruptured by applying pressure prior to using the diaper or the bandage,the skin-care substance contained in the capsules is either notdelivered at all or is delivered non-uniformly leaving some areas ofskin uncoated.

[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 3,896,807 to Buchalter teaches an articleimpregnated with a solid oil phase of cream formulation which forms acream upon addition of moisture thereto. A major disadvantage of thearticle disclosed by the reference is that transfer of a beneficialsubstance from the absorbent substrate to skin is delayed and is onlyrealized when body fluids are released.

[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 3,489,148 to Duncan et al. teaches a baby diapercomprising a hydrophobic and oleophobic topsheet wherein a portion ofthe topsheet is coated with a discontinuous film of oleaginous material.A major disadvantage of the diapers disclosed in the Duncan et al.reference is that the hydrophobic and oleophobic topsheets are slow inpromoting transfer of urine to the underlying absorbent cores.

[0012] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide adisposable diaper having a hydrophilic topsheet having superior fluidhandling properties.

[0013] It is a further object of the present invention to provide ahydrophilic diaper topsheet having a lotion coating on the outer surfaceof the topsheet that is transferable to the wearer's skin and iseffective at reducing the adherence of BM to the skin, thereby improvingthe ease of BM cleanup.

[0014] It is yet a further object of the present invention desirable toprovide lotioned diaper products that: (1) have desirable BM release,cleaning, therapeutic or protective lotion coating benefits (2) do notrequire relatively high levels of mineral oil; (3) do not adverselyaffect the fluid handling properties of the diaper; and (4) do notrequire special wrapping or barrier materials for packaging.

[0015] These and other objects are obtained using the present invention,as will become readily apparent from a reading of the followingdisclosure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The present invention relates to a disposable diaper having alotion coating on the outer surface of the topsheet that is semisolid orsolid at ambient temperatures (i.e., at 20° C.) and is adapted to betransferred to the wearer's skin, where it acts to reduce the adherenceof BM to the skin of the wearer, thereby improving the ease of BM cleanup.

[0017] Briefly, the disposable diapers of the present inventioncomprise:

[0018] A) a liquid impervious backsheet;

[0019] B) a liquid pervious, hydrophilic topsheet joined to saidbacksheet, said topsheet having an inner surface oriented toward theinterior of said diaper and an outer surface oriented toward the skin ofthe wearer when said diaper is being worn, wherein at least a portion ofsaid topsheet outer surface comprises an effective amount of a lotioncoating which is semi-solid or solid at 20° C. and which is partiallytransferable to the wearer's skin, said lotion coating comprising:

[0020] (i) from about 10 to about 95% of a substantially water freeemollient having a plastic or fluid consistency at 20° C. and comprisinga member selected from the group consisting of petroleum-basedemollients, fatty acid ester emollients, alkyl ethoxylate emollients,polysiloxane emollients, and mixtures thereof;

[0021] (ii) from about 5 to about 90% of an agent capable ofimmobilizing said emollient on said outer surface of the topsheet, saidimmobilizing agent having a melting point of at least about 35° C.; and

[0022] C) an absorbent core positioned between said topsheet and saidbacksheet.

[0023] The quantity of lotion coating on a least a portion of the diapertopsheets of the present invention preferably ranges from about 0.1mg/in² to about 25 mg/in², more preferably from about 1 mg/in² to about10 mg/in². Lotioned diaper topsheets according to the present inventionprovide desirable BM cleaning, therapeutic or protective lotion coatingbenefits. Because the emollient is substantially immobilized on thesurface of the topsheet, less lotion composition is needed to impart thedesired skin care benefits. In addition, special barrier or wrappingmaterials are unnecessary in packaging the lotioned diaper products ofthe present invention.

[0024] As will be discussed hereinafter, the lotion compositions of thepresent invention preferably have a melting profile such that they arerelatively immobile and localized on the diaper topsheet at roomtemperature, are transferable to the wearer at body temperature, and yetare not completely liquid under extreme storage conditions.

[0025] Importantly, the lotion compositions of the present invention areeasily transferable to the skin by way of normal contact, wearer motion,and/or body heat. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that thelotion composition changes the surface energy of the skin, and/or formsa “barrier” reducing the affinity of the skin for BM. The BM, therefore,has a reduced tendency to stick to the skin, and is easier to remove.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026]FIG. 1 is a schematic representation illustrating a preferredprocess for applying the lotion composition of the present invention todiaper topsheets.

[0027]FIG. 2 is a schematic representation illustrating an alternativeprocess for applying the lotion composition of the present invention todiaper topsheets.

[0028]FIG. 3 is an absorbent article in the form of a diaper accordingto the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] As used herein, the term “comprising” means that the variouscomponents, ingredients, or steps, can be conjointly employed inpracticing the present invention. Accordingly, the term “comprising”encompasses the more restrictive terms “consisting essentially of” and“consisting of.”

[0030] All percentages, ratios and proportions used herein are by weightunless otherwise specified.

[0031] A. Absorbent Article

[0032] As used herein, the term “absorbent article” refers to deviceswhich absorb and contain body exudates, and more specifically, refers todevices which are placed against the skin of a wearer to absorb andcontain the various exudates discharged from the body. The term“disposable” is used herein to describe absorbent articles which are notintended to be laundered or otherwise restored or reused as an absorbentarticle after a single use. Examples of disposable absorbent articlesinclude feminine hygiene garments such as sanitary napkins andpanti-liners, diapers, incontinence briefs, diaper holders, trainingpants, and the like.

[0033] Disposable absorbent articles typically comprise a liquidpervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet joined to the topsheetand an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet.Disposable absorbent articles and components thereof, including thetopsheet, backsheet, absorbent core, and any individual layers of thesecomponents, have a body surface and a garment surface. As used herein,“body surface” means that surface of the article or component which isintended to be worn toward or adjacent to the body of the wearer, whilethe “garment surface” is on the opposite side and is intended to be worntoward or placed adjacent to the wearer's body or undergarments when thedisposable absorbent article is worn.

[0034] The following description generally discusses the absorbent core,topsheet, and backsheet materials that are useful in disposableabsorbent articles. It is to be understood that this general descriptionapplies to these components of the specific absorbent articles shown inFIG. 3 and further described below, in addition to those of otherdisposable absorbent articles which are generally described herein.

[0035] In general, the absorbent core is capable of absorbing orretaining liquids (e.g., menses, urine, and/or other body exudates). Theabsorbent core is preferably compressible, conformable, andnon-irritating to the wearer's skin. The absorbent core may bemanufactured in a wide variety of sizes and shapes (e.g., rectangular,oval, hourglass, “T” shaped, dog bone, asymmetric, etc.). In addition tothe absorbent composites of the present invention, the absorbent coremay include any of a wide variety of liquid-absorbent materials commonlyused in absorbent articles, such as comminuted wood pulp, which isgenerally referred to as airfelt. Examples of other suitable absorbentmaterials for use in the absorbent core include creped cellulosewadding; meltblown polymers including coform; chemically stiffened,modified or cross-linked cellulosic fibers; synthetic fibers such ascrimped polyester fibers; peat moss; tissue including tissue wraps andtissue laminates; absorbent foams; absorbent sponges; superabsorbentpolymers; absorbent gelling materials; or any equivalent material orcombinations of materials, or mixtures of these.

[0036] The configuration and construction of the absorbent core may alsobe varied (e.g., the absorbent core may have varying caliper zonesand/or have a profile so as to be thicker in the center; hydrophilicgradients; gradients of the absorbent composite of the presentinvention, superabsorbent gradients; or lower average density and loweraverage basis weight zones, e.g., acquisition zones; or may comprise oneor more layers or structures). The total absorbent capacity of theabsorbent core should, however, be compatible with the design loadingand the intended use of the absorbent article. Further, the size andabsorbent capacity of the absorbent core may be varied to accommodatedifferent uses such as diapers, incontinence pads, pantiliners, regularsanitary napkins, and overnight sanitary napkins, and to accommodatewearers ranging from infants to adults.

[0037] The absorbent core can include other absorbent components thatare often used in absorbent articles, for example, a dusting layer, awicking or acquisition layer, or a secondary topsheet for increasing thewearer's comfort.

[0038] The topsheet is preferably compliant, soft feeling, andnon-irritating to the wearer's skin. Further, the topsheet is liquidpervious, permitting liquids (e.g., menses and/or urine) to readilypenetrate through its thickness. A suitable topsheet may be manufacturedfrom a wide range of materials such as woven and nonwoven materials(e.g., a nonwoven web of fibers); polymeric materials such as aperturedformed thermoplastic films, apertured plastic films, and hydroformedthermoplastic films; porous foams; reticulated foams; reticulatedthermoplastic films; and thermoplastic scrims. Suitable woven andnonwoven materials can be comprised of natural fibers (e.g., wood orcotton fibers), synthetic fibers (e.g., polymeric fibers such aspolyester, polypropylene, or polyethylene fibers) or from a combinationof natural and synthetic fibers. When the topsheet comprises a nonwovenweb, the web may be manufactured by a wide number of known techniques.For example, the web may be spunbonded, carded, wet-laid, melt-blown,hydroentangled, combinations of the above, or the like.

[0039] The backsheet is impervious to liquids (e.g., menses and/orurine) and is preferably manufactured from a thin plastic film, althoughother flexible liquid impervious materials may also be used. As usedherein, the term “flexible” refers to materials which are compliant andwill readily conform to the general shape and contours of the humanbody. The backsheet prevents the exudates absorbed and contained in theabsorbent core from wetting articles which contact the absorbent articlesuch as bedsheets, pants, pajamas and undergarments. The backsheet maythus comprise a woven or nonwoven material, polymeric films such asthermoplastic films of polyethylene or polypropylene, or compositematerials such as a film-coated nonwoven material. A suitable backsheetis a polyethylene film having a thickness of from about 0.012 mm (0.5mil) to about 0.051 mm (2.0 mils). Exemplary polyethylene films aremanufactured by Clopay Corporation of Cincinnati, Ohio, under thedesignation P18-1401 and by Tredegar Film Products of Terre Haute, Ind.,under the designation XP-39385. The backsheet is preferably embossedand/or matte finished to provide a more clothlike appearance. Further,the backsheet may permit vapors to escape from the absorbent core (i.e.,the backsheet is breathable) while still preventing exudates frompassing through the backsheet. The size of the backsheet is dictated bythe size of the absorbent core and the exact absorbent article designselected.

[0040] The backsheet and the topsheet are positioned adjacent thegarment surface and the body surface, respectively, of the absorbentcore. The absorbent core is preferably joined with the topsheet, thebacksheet, or both in any manner as is known by attachment means (notshown in FIG. 3) such as those well known in the art. However,embodiments of the present invention are envisioned wherein portions ofthe entire absorbent core are unattached to either the topsheet, thebacksheet, or both.

[0041] For example, the backsheet and/or the topsheet may be secured tothe absorbent core or to each other by a uniform continuous layer ofadhesive, a patterned layer of adhesive, or an array of separate lines,spirals, or spots of adhesive. Adhesives which have been found to besatisfactory are manufactured by H. B. Fuller Company of St. Paul, Minn.under the designation HL-1258 or H-2031. The attachment means willpreferably comprise an open pattern network of filaments of adhesive asis disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,573,986, issued to Minetola, et al. onMar. 4, 1986, and which is incorporated herein by reference. Anexemplary attachment means of an open pattern network of filamentscomprises several lines of adhesive filaments swirled into a spiralpattern such as illustrated by the apparatus and method shown in U.S.Pat. No. 3,911,173 issued to Sprague, Jr. on Oct. 7, 1975; U.S. Pat. No.4,785,996 issued to Zwieker, et al. on Nov. 22, 1978; and U.S. Pat. No.4,842,666 issued to Werenicz on Jun. 27, 1989. Each of these patents areincorporated herein by reference. Alternatively, the attachment meansmay comprise heat bonds, pressure bonds, ultrasonic bonds, dynamicmechanical bonds, or any other suitable attachment means or combinationsof these attachment means as are known in the art.

[0042] A preferred disposable absorbent article in which the lotionedtopsheets of the present invention may be used are diapers. As usedherein, the term “diaper” refers to an absorbent article generally wornby infants, and incontinent persons that is worn about the lower torsoof the wearer. In other words, the term “diaper” includes infantdiapers, training pants, adult incontinence devices, etc.

[0043]FIG. 3 is a plan view of the diaper 50 of the present invention inits flat-out, uncontracted state (i.e., with elastic induced contractionpulled out) with portions of the structure being cut-away to moreclearly show the construction of the diaper 50 and with the portion ofthe diaper 50 which faces away from the wearer, the outer surface,oriented towards the viewer. As shown in FIG. 3, the diaper 50preferably comprises a liquid pervious topsheet 520; a liquid imperviousbacksheet 530 joined with the topsheet 520; an absorbent core 540positioned between the topsheet 520 and the backsheet 530, the absorbentcore 540 having a garment facing surface 542, a body facing surface 544,side edges 546, waist edges 548, and ears 549. The diaper 50 preferablyfurther comprises elasticized leg cuffs 550; an elastic waist featuremultiply designated as 560; and a fastening system generally multiplydesignated as 570.

[0044] The diaper 50 is shown in FIG. 3 to have an outer surface 52, aninner surface 54 opposed to the outer surface 52, a first waist region56, a second waist region 58, and a periphery 51 which is defined by theouter edges of the diaper 50 in which the longitudinal edges aredesignated 55 and the end edges are designated 57. (While the skilledartisan will recognize that a diaper is usually described in terms ofhaving a pair of waist regions and a crotch region between the waistregions, in this application, for simplicity of terminology, the diaper50 is described as having only waist regions including a portion of thediaper which would typically be designated as part of the crotchregion). The inner surface 54 of the diaper 50 comprises that portion ofthe diaper 50 which is positioned adjacent to the wearer's body duringuse (i.e., the inner surface 54 generally is formed by at least aportion of the topsheet 520 and other components that may be joined tothe topsheet 520). The outer surface 52 comprises that portion of thediaper 50 which is positioned away from the wearer's body (i.e., theouter surface 52 generally is formed by at least a portion of thebacksheet 530 and other components that may be joined to the backsheet530). (As used herein, the portion of the diaper 50 or component thereofwhich faces the wearer is also referred to as the body facing surface.Similarly, the portion facing away from the wearer is also referred toherein as the garment facing surface.) The first waist region 56 and thesecond waist region 58 extend, respectively, from the end edges 57 ofthe periphery 51 to the lateral centerline 53 of the diaper 50. FIG. 3also shows the longitudinal centerline 59.

[0045]FIG. 3 shows a preferred embodiment of the diaper 50 in which thetopsheet 520 and the backsheet 530 have length and width dimensionsgenerally larger than those of the absorbent core 540. The elasticizedleg cuffs 550 and the backsheet 530 extend beyond the edges of theabsorbent core 540 to thereby form the periphery 51 of the diaper 50.

[0046] Diapers of the present invention can have a number of well knownconfigurations, with the absorbent cores thereof being adapted to thepresent invention. Exemplary configurations are described generally inU.S. Pat. No. 3,860,003 issued to Buell on Jan. 14, 1975; U.S. Pat. No.5,151,092 issued to Buell et al. on Sep. 29, 1992; U.S. Pat. No.5,221,274 issued to Buell et al. on Jun. 22, 1993. Each of these patentsis incorporated herein by reference. Another diaper configuration towhich the present invention can be readily adapted are described inco-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/203,456; filed on Feb.28, 1994 and incorporated herein by reference. The absorbent cores ofdiapers described in these patents can be adapted in light of theteachings herein to include the absorbent composite of the presentinvention as an absorbent gelling material described therein.

[0047] A topsheet 520 which is particularly suitable for use in thediaper 50, is carded and thermally bonded by means well known to thoseskilled in the fabrics art. A satisfactory topsheet for the presentinvention comprises staple length polypropylene fibers having a denierof about 2.2 As used herein, the term “staple length fibers” refers tothose fibers having a length of at least about 15.9 mm (0.625 inches).Preferably, the topsheet has a basis weight from about 14 to about 25grams per square meter. A suitable topsheet is manufactured by Veratec,Inc., a Division of International Paper Company, of Walpole, Mass. underthe designation P-8.

[0048] The topsheet 520 of diaper 50 is preferably made of a hydrophilicmaterial to promote rapid transfer of liquids (e.g., urine) through thetopsheet. If the topsheet is made of a hydrophobic material, at leastthe upper surface of the topsheet is treated to be hydrophilic so thatliquids will transfer through the topsheet more rapidly. This diminishesthe likelihood that body exudates will flow off the topsheet rather thanbeing drawn through the topsheet and being absorbed by the absorbentcore. The topsheet can be rendered hydrophilic by treating it with asurfactant. Suitable methods for treating the topsheet with a surfactantinclude spraying the topsheet material with the surfactant and immersingthe material into the surfactant. A more detailed discussion of such atreatment and hydrophilicity is contained in U.S. Pat. No. 4,988,344entitled “Absorbent Articles with Multiple Layer Absorbent Layers”issued to Reising, et al on Jan. 29, 1991 and U.S. Pat. 4,988,345entitled “Absorbent Articles with Rapid Acquiring Absorbent Cores”issued to Reising on Jan. 29, 1991, each of which is incorporated byreference herein.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment of a diaper as described herein, thebacksheet 530 has a modified hourglass shape extending beyond theabsorbent core a minimum distance of about 1.3 cm to about 6.4 cm (about0.5 to about 2.5 inch) around the entire diaper periphery.

[0050] The absorbent core 540 may take on any size or shape that iscompatible with the diaper 50. One preferred embodiment of the diaper 50has an asymmetric, modified T-shaped absorbent core 540 having ears inthe first waist region but a generally rectangular shape in the secondwaist region. Exemplary absorbent structures for use as the absorbentcore of the present invention that have achieved wide acceptance andcommercial success are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,610,678 entitled“High-Density Absorbent Structures” issued to Weisman et al. on Sep. 9,1986; U.S. Pat. No. 4,673,402 entitled “Absorbent Articles WithDual-Layered Cores” issued to Weisman et al. on Jun. 16, 1987; U.S. Pat.4,888,231 entitled “Absorbent Core Having A Dusting Layer” issued toAngstadt on Dec. 19, 1989; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,834,735, entitled “HighDensity Absorbent Members Having Lower Density and Lower Basis WeightAcquisition Zones”, issued to Alemany et al. on May 30, 1989. Theabsorbent core may further comprise the dual core system containing anacquisition/distribution core of chemically stiffened fibers positionedover an absorbent storage core as detailed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,234,423,entitled “Absorbent Article With Elastic Waist Feature and EnhancedAbsorbency” issued to Alemany et al., on Aug. 10, 1993; and in U.S. Pat.No. 5,147,345, entitled “High Efficiency Absorbent Articles ForIncontinence Management” issued to Young, LaVon and Taylor on Sep. 15,1992. All of these patents are incorporated herein by reference.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the diaper 50 further compriseselasticized leg cuffs 550 for providing improved containment of liquidsand other body exudates; an elastic waist feature 560 that providesimproved fit and containment; and a fastening system 570 which forms aside closure which maintains the first waist region 56 and the secondwaist region 58 in an overlapping configuration such that lateraltensions are maintained around the circumference of the diaper tomaintain the diaper on the wearer. The diaper 50 may also compriseelasticized side panels (not shown) in the waist regions 56 and 58 toprovide an elastically extensible feature that provides a morecomfortable and contouring fit and more effective application of thediaper 50.

[0052] The elasticized leg cuffs 550 can be constructed in a number ofdifferent configurations, including those described in U.S. Pat. No.3,860,003; U.S. Pat. No. 4,909,803, issued to Aziz et al. on Mar. 20,1990; U.S. Pat. No. 4,695,278, issued to Lawson on Sep. 22, 1987; andU.S. Pat. No. 4,795,454, issued to Dragoo on Jan. 3, 1989, each beingincorporated herein by reference.

[0053] The elasticized waist feature preferably comprises an elasticizedwaistband (not shown) that may be constructed in a number of differentconfigurations including those described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,515,595issued to Kievit et al. on May 7, 1985; U.S. Pat. No. 5,026,364 issuedto Robertson on Jun. 25, 1991; and the above referenced U.S. Pat. No.5,151,092 issued to Buell et al. on Sep. 29, 1992, each of thesereferences being incorporated herein by reference.

[0054] The elasticized side panels may be constructed in a number ofconfigurations. Examples of diapers with elasticized side panelspositioned in the ears (ear flaps) of the diaper are disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 4,857,067, issued to Wood, et al. on Aug. 15, 1989; U.S. Pat.No. 4,381,781, issued to Sciaraffa, et al. on May 3, 1983; U.S. Pat. No.4,938,753, issued to Van Gompel, et al. on Jul. 3, 1990; and U.S. Pat.No. 5,151,092, issued to Buell et al. on Sep. 29, 1992; each of whichare incorporated herein by reference.

[0055] Exemplary fastening systems 570 are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.4,846,815, issued to Scripps on Jul. 11, 1989; U.S. Pat. No. 4,894,060,issued to Nestegard on Jan. 16, 1990; U.S. Pat. No. 4,946,527, issued toBattrell on Aug. 7, 1990; U.S. Pat. No. 3,848,594, issued to Buell onNov. 19, 1974; U.S. Pat. No. B1 4,662,875, issued to Hirotsu et al. onMay 5, 1987; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,151,092, issued to Buell et al. on Sep.29, 1992; each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0056] The diaper 50 is preferably applied to a wearer by positioningone of the waist regions of the diaper, preferably the second waistregion 58, under the wearer's back and drawing the remainder of thediaper between the wearers legs so that the other waist region,preferably the first waist region 56, is positioned across the front ofthe wearer. The fastening system is then applied to effect a sideclosure.

[0057] The lotioned topsheets of the present invention are also usefulin training pants. The term “training pants”, as used herein, refers todisposable garments having fixed sides and leg openings. Training pantsare placed in position on the wearer by inserting the wearer's legs intothe leg openings and sliding the training pant into position about thewearer's lower torso. Suitable training pants are disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 5,246,433, issued to Hasse, et al. on Sep. 21, 1993.

[0058] Another disposable absorbent article for which the lotionedtopsheets of the present invention are useful are incontinence articles.The term “incontinence article” refers to pads, undergarments (pads heldin place by a suspension system of same type, such as a belt, or thelike), inserts for absorbent articles, capacity boosters for absorbentarticles, briefs, bed pads, and the like regardless of whether they areworn by adults or other incontinent persons. Suitable incontinencearticles are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,253,461 issued to Strickland,et al. on Mar. 3, 1981; U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,597,760 and 4,597,761 issued toBuell; the above-mentioned U.S. Pat. No. 4,704,115; U.S. Pat. No.4,909,802 issued to Ahr, et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 4,964,860 issued toGipson, et al. on Oct. 23, 1990; and in U.S. patent application Ser. No.07/637,090 filed by Noel, et al. on Jan. 3, 1991 (PCT Publication No. WO92/11830 published on Jul. 23, 1992).

[0059] B. Lotion Composition.

[0060] The lotion compositions of the present invention are solid, ormore often semisolid, at 20° C., i.e. at ambient temperatures. By“semisolid” is meant that the lotion composition has a rheology typicalof pseudoplastic or plastic fluids. When no shear is applied, the lotioncompositions can have the appearance of a semi-solid but can be made toflow as the shear rate is increased. This is due to the fact that, whilethe lotion composition contains primarily solid components, it alsoincludes some minor liquid components.

[0061] The lotion compositions of the present invention are at leastsemi-solid at room temperature to minimize lotion migration. Inaddition, the lotion compositions preferably have a final melting point(100% liquid) above potential “stressful” storage conditions that can begreater than 45° C. (e.g., warehouse in Arizona, car trunk in Florida,etc.).

[0062] Specifically, the lotion compositions of the present inventionshould have the following melt profile: Characteristic Preferred RangeMost Preferred % liquid at  2-50  3-25 room temp. (20° C.) % liquid at25-95 30-90 body temp. (37° C.) final melting point (° C.) ≧38 ≧45

[0063] By being solid or semisolid at ambient temperatures, these lotioncompositions do not have a tendency to flow and migrate into theinterior of the diaper topsheet to which they are applied. This meansless lotion composition is required for imparting desirable therapeuticor protective coating lotion benefits.

[0064] When applied to outer surface of diaper topsheets, the lotioncompositions of the present invention are transferable to the wearer'sskin by normal contact, wearer motion, and/or body heat. Importantly,the lotions disclosed in the present invention reduce the adherence ofBM to the skin of the wearer, thereby improving the ease of BM clean up.

[0065] The diaper topsheets of the present invention contain aneffective amount of the lotion composition. As used herein, the term“effective amount of a lotion coating” refers to an amount of aparticular lotion composition which, when applied to a diaper topsheet,will be effective in reducing the adherence of BM to the skin of thewearer. Of course, the effective amount of a lotion coating will depend,to a large extent, on the particular lotion composition used.

[0066] The lotion compositions of the present invention comprise: (1) anemollient(s); (2) an immobilizing agent(s) for the emollient; (3)optionally a hydrophilic surfactant(s); and (4) other optionalcomponents.

[0067] The viscosity of the formulated lotion compositions, includingemollient, immobolizing agent, and optional components should be as highas possible to keep the lotion from flowing into the interior of thediaper. Unfortunately, high viscosities can also lead to lotioncompositions that are difficult to apply without processing problems.Therefore, a balance must be achieved so the viscosities are high enoughto keep the lotion compositions localized on the surface of the diapertopsheet, but not so high as to cause processing problems. Suitableviscosities for the lotion compositions will typically range from about5 to about 200 centipoises, preferably from about 15 to about 100centipoises, measured at 60° C.

[0068] 1. Emollient

[0069] The key active ingredient in these lotion compositions is one ormore emollients. As used herein, an emollient is a material thatsoftens, soothes, supples, coats, lubricates, moisturizes, or cleansesthe skin. An emollient typically accomplishes several of theseobjectives such as soothing, moisturizing, and lubricating the skin. Forthe purposes of the present invention, these emollients have either aplastic or fluid consistency at 20° C., i.e., at ambient temperatures.This particular emollient consistency allows the lotion composition toimpart a soft, lubricious, lotion-like feel.

[0070] The emollients useful in the present invention are alsosubstantially free of water. By “substantially free of water” is meantthat water is not intentionally added to the emollient. Addition ofwater to the emollient is not necessary in preparing or using the lotioncompositions of the present invention and could require an additionaldrying step. However, minor or trace quantities of water in theemollient that are picked up as a result of, for example, ambienthumidity can be tolerated without adverse effect. Typically, theemollients used in the present invention contain about 5% or less water,preferably about 1% or less water, most preferably about 0.5% or lesswater.

[0071] Emollients useful in the present invention can bepetroleum-based, fatty acid ester type, alkyl ethoxylate type, fattyacid ester ethoxylates, fatty alcohol type, polysiloxane type, ormixtures of these emollients. Suitable petroleum-based emollientsinclude those hydrocarbons, or mixtures of hydrocarbons, having chainlengths of from 16 to 32 carbon atoms. Petroleum based hydrocarbonshaving these chain lengths include mineral oil (also known as “liquidpetrolatum”) and petrolatum (also known as “mineral wax,” “petroleumjelly” and “mineral jelly”). Mineral oil usually refers to less viscousmixtures of hydrocarbons having from 16 to 20 carbon atoms. Petrolatumusually refers to more viscous mixtures of hydrocarbons having from 16to 32 carbon atoms. Petrolatum and mineral oil are particularlypreferred emollients for lotion compositions of the present invention.

[0072] Suitable fatty acid ester type emollients include those derivedfrom C₁₂-C₂₈ fatty acids, preferably C₁₆-C₂₂ saturated fatty acids, andshort chain (C₁-C₈, preferably C₁-C₃) monohydric alcohols.Representative examples of such esters include methyl palmitate, methylstearate, isopropyl laurate, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate,ethylhexyl palmitate and mixtures thereof. Suitable fatty acid esteremollients can also be derived from esters of longer chain fattyalcohols (C₁₂-C₂₈, preferably C₁₂-C₁₆) and shorter chain fatty acidse.g., lactic acid, such as lauryl lactate and cetyl lactate.

[0073] Suitable alkyl ethoxylate type emollients include C₁₂-C₂₂ fattyalcohol ethoxylates having an average degree of ethoxylation of fromabout 2 to about 30. Preferably, the fatty alcohol ethoxylate emollientis selected from the group consisting of lauryl, cetyl, and stearylethoxylates, and mixtures thereof, having an average degree ofethoxylation ranging from about 2 to about 23. Representative examplesof such alkyl ethoxylates include laureth-3 (a lauryl ethoxylate havingan average degree of ethoxylation of 3), laureth-23 (a lauryl ethoxylatehaving an average degree of ethoxylation of 23), ceteth-10 (a cetylalcohol ethoxylate having an average degree of ethoxylation of 10) andsteareth-10 (a stearyl alcohol ethoxylate having an average degree ofethoxylation of 10). These alkyl ethoxylate emollients are typicallyused in combination with the petroleum-based emollients, such aspetrolatum, at a weight ratio of alkyl ethoxylate emollient topetroleum-based emollient of from about 1:1 to about 1:5, preferablyfrom about 1:2 to about 1:4.

[0074] Suitable fatty alcohol type emollients include C₁₂-C₂₂ fattyalcohols, preferably C₁₆-C₁₈ fatty alcohols. Representative examplesinclude cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, and mixtures thereof. Thesefatty alcohol emollients are typically used in combination with thepetroleum-based emollients, such as petrolatum, at a weight ratio offatty alcohol emollient to petroleum-based emollient of from about 1:1to about 1:5, preferably from about 1:1 to about 1:2.

[0075] Other suitable types of emollients for use in the presentinvention include polysiloxane compounds. In general suitablepolysiloxane materials for use in the present invention include thosehaving monomeric siloxane units of the following structure:

[0076] wherein, R₁ and R₂, for each independent siloxane monomeric unitcan each independently be hydrogen or any alkyl, aryl, alkenyl, alkaryl,arakyl, cycloalkyl, halogenated hydrocarbon, or other radical. Any ofsuch radicals can be substituted or unsubstituted. R₁ and R₂ radicals ofany particular monomeric unit may differ from the correspondingfunctionalities of the next adjoining monomeric unit. Additionally, thepolysiloxane can be either a straight chain, a branched chain or have acyclic structure. The radicals R₁ and R₂ can additionally independentlybe other silaceous functionalities such as, but not limited tosiloxanes, polysiloxanes, silanes, and polysilanes. The radicals R₁ andR₂ may contain any of a variety of organic functionalities including,for example, alcohol, carboxylic acid, phenyl, and aminefunctionalities.

[0077] Exemplary alkyl radicals are methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl,pentyl, hexyl, octyl, decyl, octadecyl, and the like. Exemplary alkenylradicals are vinyl, allyl, and the like. Exemplary aryl radicals arephenyl, diphenyl, naphthyl, and the like. Exemplary alkaryl radicals aretoyl, xylyl, ethylphenyl, and the like. Exemplary aralkyl radicals arebenzyl, alpha-phenylethyl, beta-phenylethyl, alpha-phenylbutyl, and thelike. Exemplary cycloalkyl radicals are cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl,cyclohexyl, and the like. Exemplary halogenated hydrocarbon radicals arechloromethyl, bromoethyl, tetrafluorethyl, fluorethyl, trifluorethyl,trifluorotloyl, hexafluoroxylyl, and the like.

[0078] Viscosity of polysiloxanes useful may vary as widely as theviscosity of polysiloxanes in general vary, so long as the polysiloxaneis flowable or can be made to be flowable for application to the diapertopsheet. This includes, but is not limited to, viscosity as low as 5centistokes (at 37° C. as measured by a glass viscometer) to about20,000,000 centistokes. Preferably the polysiloxanes have a viscosity at37° C. ranging from about 5 to about 5,000 centistokes, more preferablyfrom about 5 to about 2,000 centistokes, most preferably from about 100to about 1000 centistokes. High viscosity polysiloxanes which themselvesare resistant to flowing can be effectively deposited upon the diapertopsheets by such methods as, for example, emulsifying the polysiloxanein surfactant or providing the polysiloxane in solution with the aid ofa solvent, such as hexane, listed for exemplary purposes only.Particular methods for applying polysiloxane emollients to diapertopsheets are discussed in more detail hereinafter.

[0079] Preferred polysiloxanes compounds for use in the presentinvention are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,059,282 (Ampulski et al),issued Oct. 22, 1991, which is incorporated herein by reference.Particularly preferred polysiloxane compounds for use as emollients inthe lotion compositions of the present invention includephenyl-functional polymethylsiloxane compounds (e.g., Dow Corning 556Cosmetic-Grade Fluid: polyphenylmethylsiloxane) and cetyl or stearylfunctionalized dimethicones such as Dow 2502 and Dow 2503 polysiloxanefluids, respectively. In addition to such substitution withphenyl-functional or alkyl groups, effective substitution may be madewith amino, carboxyl, hydroxyl, ether, polyether, aldehyde, ketone,amide, ester, and thiol groups. Of these effective substituent groups,the family of groups comprising phenyl, amino, alkyl, carboxyl, andhydroxyl groups are more preferred than the others; andphenyl-functional groups are most preferred.

[0080] Besides petroleum-based emollients, fatty acid ester emollients,fatty acid ester ethoxylates, alkyl ethoxylate emollients fatty alcoholemollients, and polysiloxanes, the emollients useful in the presentinvention can include minor amounts (e.g., up to about 10% of the totalemollient) of other, conventional emollients. These other, conventionalemollients include propylene glycol, glycerine, triethylene glycol,spermaceti or other waxes, fatty acids, and fatty alcohol ethers havingfrom 12 to 28 carbon atoms in their fatty chain, such as stearic acid,propoxylated fatty alcohols; glycerides, acetoglycerides, andethoxylated glycerides of C₁₂-C₂₈ fatty acids; other fatty esters ofpolyhydroxy alcohols; lanolin and its derivatives. These otheremollients should be included in a manner such that the solid orsemisolid characteristics of the lotion composition are maintained.

[0081] The amount of emollient that can be included in the lotioncomposition will depend on a variety of factors, including theparticular emollient involved, the lotion-like benefits desired, theother components in the lotion composition and like factors. The lotioncomposition can comprise from about 10 to about 95% of the emollient.Preferably, the lotion composition comprises from about 20 to about 80%,most preferably from about 40 to about 75%, of the emollient.

[0082] 2. Immobilizing Agent

[0083] An especially key component of the lotion compositions of thepresent invention is an agent capable of immobilizing the emollient onthe diaper topsheet to which the lotion composition is applied. Becausethe emollient in the composition has a plastic or fluid consistency at20° C., it tends to flow or migrate, even when subjected to modestshear. When applied to a diaper topsheet, especially in a melted ormolten state, the emollient will not remain primarily on the surface ofthe topsheet. Instead, the emollient will tend to migrate and flow intothe interior of the diaper.

[0084] This migration of the emollient into the interior of the diapercan cause undesired effects on the absorbency of the diaper core due tothe hydrophobic characteristics of many of the emollients used in thelotion compositions of the present invention. It also means that muchmore emollient has to be applied to the diaper topsheet to get thedesired therapeutic or protective lotion benefits. Increasing the levelof emollient not only increases the cost, but also exacerbates theundesirable effect on the absorbency of the diaper core.

[0085] The immobilizing agent counteracts this tendency of the emollientto migrate or flow by keeping the emollient primarily localized on thesurface of the diaper topsheet to which the lotion composition isapplied. This is believed to be due, in part, to the fact that theimmobilizing agent raises the melting point of the lotion compositionabove that of the emollient. Since the immobilizing agent is alsomiscible with the emollient (or solubilized in the emollient with theaid of an appropriate emulsifier), it entraps the emollient on thesurface of the diaper topsheet as well.

[0086] It is also advantageous to “lock” the immobilizing agent on thesurface of the diaper topsheet. This can be accomplished by usingimmobilizing agents which quickly crystallize (i.e., solidify) at thesurface of the topsheet. In addition, outside cooling of the treateddiaper topsheet via blowers, fans, etc. can speed up crystallization ofthe immobilizing agent.

[0087] In addition to being miscible with (or solubilized in) theemollient, the immobilizing agent needs to have a melting point of atleast about 35° C. This is so the immobilizing agent itself will nothave a tendency to migrate or flow. Preferred immobilizing agents willhave melting points of at least about 40° C. Typically, the immobilizingagent will have a melting point in the range of from about 50° to about150° C.

[0088] Suitable immobilizing agents for the present invention cancomprise a member selected from the group consisting of C₁₄-C₂₂ fattyalcohols, C₁₂-C₂₂ fatty acids, and C₁₂-C₂₂ fatty alcohol ethoxylateshaving an average degree of ethoxylation ranging from 2 to about 30, andmixtures thereof. Preferred immobilizing agents include C₁₆-C₁₈ fattyalcohols, most preferably selected from the group consisting of cetylalcohol, stearyl alcohol, and mixtures thereof. Mixtures of cetylalcohol and stearyl alcohol are particularly preferred. Other preferredimmobilizing agents include C₁₆-C₁₈ fatty acids, most preferablyselected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, stearic acid, andmixtures thereof. Mixtures of palmitic acid and stearic acid areparticularly preferred. Still other preferred immobilizing agentsinclude C₁₆-C₁₈ fatty alcohol ethoxylates having an average degree ofethoxylation ranging from about 5 to about 20. Preferably, the fattyalcohols, fatty acids and fatty alcohols are linear.

[0089] Importantly, these preferred immobilizing agents such as theC₁₆-C₁₈ fatty alcohols increase the rate of crystallization of thelotion causing the lotion to crystallize rapidly onto the surface of thesubstrate. Lower lotion levels can therefore be utilized or a superiorlotion feel can be delivered. Traditionally, greater amounts of lotionwere needed to generate softness because of the flow of these liquidsinto the diaper core.

[0090] Other types of immobilizing agents can be used either alone or incombination with the fatty alcohols, fatty acids, and fatty alcoholethoxylates described above. Examples of these other types ofimmobilizing agents includes polyhydroxy fatty acid esters, polyhydroxyfatty acid amides, and mixtures thereof. Preferred esters and amideswill have three or more free hydroxy groups on the polyhydroxy moietyand are typically nonionic in character. Because of the possible skinsensitivity of those using diaper topsheets to which the lotioncomposition is applied, these esters and amides should also berelatively mild and non-irritating to the skin.

[0091] Suitable polyhydroxy fatty acid esters for use in the presentinvention will have the formula:

[0092] wherein R is a C₅-C₃₁ hydrocarbyl group, preferably straightchain C₇-C₁₉ alkyl or alkenyl, more preferably straight chain C₉-C₁₇alkyl or alkenyl, most preferably straight chain C₁₁-C₁₇ alkyl oralkenyl, or mixture thereof; Y is a polyhydroxyhydrocarbyl moiety havinga hydrocarbyl chain with at least 2 free hydroxyls directly connected tothe chain; and n is at least 1. Suitable Y groups can be derived frompolyols such as glycerol, pentaerythritol; sugars such as raffinose,maltodextrose, galactose, sucrose, glucose, xylose, fructose, maltose,lactose, mannose and erythrose; sugar alcohols such as erythritol,xylitol, malitol, mannitol and sorbitol; and anhydrides of sugaralcohols such as sorbitan.

[0093] One class of suitable polyhydroxy fatty acid esters for use inthe present invention comprises certain sorbitan esters, preferably thesorbitan esters of C₁₆-C₂₂ saturated fatty acids. Because of the mannerin which they are typically manufactured, these sorbitan esters usuallycomprise mixtures of mono-, di-, tri-, etc. esters. Representativeexamples of suitable sorbitan esters include sorbitan palmitates (e.g.,SPAN 40), sorbitan stearates (e.g., SPAN 60), and sorbitan behenates,that comprise one or more of the mono-, di- and tri-ester versions ofthese sorbitan esters, e.g., sorbitan mono-, di- and tri-palmitate,sorbitan mono-, di- and tri-stearate, sorbitan mono-, di andtri-behenate, as well as mixed tallow fatty acid sorbitan mono-, di- andtri-esters. Mixtures of different sorbitan esters can also be used, suchas sorbitan palmitates with sorbitan stearates. Particularly preferredsorbitan esters are the sorbitan stearates, typically as a mixture ofmono-, di- and tri-esters (plus some tetraester) such as SPAN 60, andsorbitan stearates sold under the trade name GLYCOMUL-S by Lonza, Inc.Although these sorbitan esters typically contain mixtures of mono-, di-and tri-esters, plus some tetraester, the mono- and di-esters areusually the predominant species in these mixtures.

[0094] Another class of suitable polyhydroxy fatty acid esters for usein the present invention comprises certain glyceryl monoesters,preferably glyceryl monoesters of C₁₆-C₂₂ saturated fatty acids such asglyceryl monostearate, glyceryl monopalmitate, and glycerylmonobehenate. Again, like the sorbitan esters, glyceryl monoestermixtures will typically contain some di- and triester. However, suchmixtures should contain predominantly the glyceryl monoester species tobe useful in the present invention.

[0095] Another class of suitable polyhydroxy fatty acid esters for usein the present invention comprise certain sucrose fatty acid esters,preferably the C₁₂-C₂₂ saturated fatty acid esters of sucrose. Sucrosemonoesters and diesters are particularly preferred and include sucrosemono- and di-stearate and sucrose mono- and di-laurate.

[0096] Suitable polyhydroxy fatty acid amides for use in the presentinvention will have the formula:

[0097] wherein R¹ is H, C₁-C₄ hydrocarbyl, 2-hydroxyethyl,2-hydroxypropyl, methoxyethyl, methoxypropyl or a mixture thereof,preferably C₁-C₄ alkyl, methoxyethyl or methoxypropyl, more preferablyC₁ or C₂ alkyl or methoxypropyl, most preferably C₁ alkyl (i.e., methyl)or methoxypropyl; and R² is a C₅-C₃₁ hydrocarbyl group, preferablystraight chain C₇-C₁₉ alkyl or alkenyl, more preferably straight chainC₉-C₁₇ alkyl or alkenyl, most preferably straight chain C₁₁-C₁₇ alkyl oralkenyl, or mixture thereof; and Z is a polyhydroxyhydrocarbyl moietyhaving a linear hydrocarbyl chain with at least 3 hydroxyls directlyconnected to the chain. See U.S. Pat. No. 5,174,927 (Honsa), issued Dec.29, 1992 (herein incorporated by reference) which discloses thesepolyhydroxy fatty acid amides, as well as their preparation.

[0098] The Z moiety preferably will be derived from a reducing sugar ina reductive amination reaction; most preferably glycityl. Suitablereducing sugars include glucose, fructose, maltose, lactose, galactose,mannose, and xylose. High dextrose corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup,and high maltose corn syrup can be utilized, as well as the individualsugars listed above. These corn syrups can yield mixtures of sugarcomponents for the Z moiety.

[0099] The Z moiety preferably will be selected from the groupconsisting of —CH₂—(CHOH)_(n)—CH₂OH, —CH(CH₂OH)—[(CHOH)_(n−1)]—CH₂OH,—CH₂OH—CH₂—(CHOH)₂(CHOR³)(CHOH)—CH₂OH, where n is an integer from 3 to5, and R³ is H or a cyclic or aliphatic monosaccharide. Most preferredare the glycityls where n is 4, particularly —CH₂—CHOH)₄—CH₂OH.

[0100] In the above formula, R¹ can be, for example, N-methyl, N-ethyl,N-propyl, N-isopropyl, N-butyl, N-2-hydroxyethyl, N-methoxypropyl orN-2-hydroxypropyl,. R² can be selected to provide, for example,cocamides, stearamides, oleamides, lauramides, myristamides,capricamides, palmitamides, tallowamides, etc. The Z moiety can be1-deoxyglucityl, 2-deoxyfructityl, 1-deoxymaltityl, 1-deoxylactityl,1-deoxygalactityl, 1-deoxymannityl, 1-deoxymaltotriotityl, etc.

[0101] The most preferred polyhydroxy fatty acid amides have the generalformula:

[0102] wherein R¹ is methyl or methoxypropyl; R² is a C₁₁-C₁₇straight-chain alkyl or alkenyl group. These include N-lauryl-N-methylglucamide, N-lauryl-N-methoxypropyl glucamide, N-cocoyl-N-methylglucamide, N-cocoyl-N-methoxypropyl glucamide,N-palmityl-N-methoxypropyl glucamide, N-tallowyl-N-methyl glucamide, orN-tallowyl-N-methoxypropyl glucamide.

[0103] As previously noted, some of the immobilizing agents require anemulsifier for solubilization in the emollient. This is particularly thecase for certain of the glucamides such as the N-alkyl-N-methoxypropylglucamides having HLB values of at least about 7. Suitable emulsifierswill typically include those having HLB values below about 7. In thisregard, the sorbitan esters previously described, such as the sorbitanstearates, having HLB values of about 4.9 or less have been found usefulin solubilizing these glucamide immobilizing agents in petrolatum. Othersuitable emulsifiers include steareth-2 (polyethylene glycol ethers ofstearyl alcohol that conform to the formula CH₃(CH₂)₁₇(OCH₂CH₂)_(n)OH,where n has an average value of 2), sorbitan tristearate, isosorbidelaurate, and glyceryl monostearate. The emulsifier can be included in anamount sufficient to solubilize the immobilizing agent in the emollientsuch that a substantially homogeneous mixture is obtained. For example,an approximately 1:1 mixture of N-cocoyl-N-methyl glucamide andpetrolatum that will normally not melt into a single phase mixture, willmelt into a single phase mixture upon the addition of 20% of a 1:1mixture of Steareth-2 and sorbitan tristearate as the emulsifier.

[0104] Other types of ingredients that can be used as immobilizingagents, either alone, or in combination with the above-mentionedimmobilizing agents, include waxes such as carnauba, beeswax,candelilla, paraffin, ceresin, esparto, ouricuri, rezowax, and otherknown waxes. Preferably the wax is a paraffin wax. An example of aparticularly preferred paraffin wax is Parrafin S.P. 434 from Strahl andPitsch Inc. P.O. Box 1098 West Babylon, N.Y. 11704.

[0105] The amount of immobilizing agent that should be included in thelotion composition will depend on a variety of factors, including theparticular emollient involved, the particular immobilizing agentinvolved, whether an emulsifier is required to solubilize theimmobilizing agent in the emollient, the other components in the lotioncomposition and like factors. The lotion composition can comprise fromabout 5 to about 90% of the immobilizing agent. Preferably, the lotioncomposition comprises from about 5 to about 50%, most preferably fromabout 10 to about 40%, of the immobilizing agent.

[0106] 3. Optional Hydrophilic Surfactant

[0107] As mentioned above, it is highly desirable that the diapertopsheet is made of a hydrophilic material to promote rapid transfer ofliquids (e.g., urine) through the topsheet. Similarly, it is importantthat the lotion composition also be sufficiently wettable to ensure thatliquids will transfer through the topsheet more rapidly. This diminishesthe likelihood that body exudates will flow off the lotion coatingrather than being drawn through the topsheet and being absorbed by theabsorbent core. Depending upon the particular immobilizing agent used inthe lotion composition of the present invention, an additionalhydrophilic surfactant (or a mixture of hydrophilic surfactants) may, ormay not, be required to improve wettability. For example, someimmobilizing agents, such as N-cocoyl-N-methoxypropyl glucamide have HLBvalues of at least about 7 and are sufficiently wettable without theaddition of hydrophilic surfactant. Other immobilizing agents such asthe C₁₆-C₁₈ fatty alcohols having HLB values below about 7 will requireaddition of hydrophilic surfactant to improve wettability when thelotion composition is applied to diaper topsheets. Similarly, ahydrophobic emollient such as petrolatum will require the addition of ahydrophilic surfactant.

[0108] Suitable hydrophilic surfactants will be miscible with theemollient and the immobilizing agent so as to form homogeneous mixtures.Because of possible skin sensitivity of those using disposable absorbentproducts to which the lotion composition is applied, these surfactantsshould also be relatively mild and non-irritating to the skin.Typically, these hydrophilic surfactants are nonionic to be not onlynon-irritating to the skin, but also to avoid other undesirable effectson any underlying tissue laminate structure, e.g., reductions in tensilestrength.

[0109] Suitable nonionic surfactants may be substantially nonmigratoryafter the lotion composition is applied to the diaper topsheets and willtypically have HLB values in the range of from about 4 to about 20,preferably from about 7 to about 20. To be nonmigratory, these nonionicsurfactants will typically have melt temperatures greater than thetemperatures commonly encountered during storage, shipping,merchandising, and use of disposable absorbent products, e.g., at leastabout 30° C. In this regard, these nonionic surfactants will preferablyhave melting points similar to those of the immobilizing agentspreviously described.

[0110] Suitable nonionic surfactants for use in lotion compositions ofthe present invention include alkylglycosides; alkylglycoside ethers asdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,011,389 (Langdon, et al), issued Mar. 8,1977; alkylpolyethoxylated esters such as Pegosperse 1000MS (availablefrom Lonza, Inc., Fair Lawn, N.J.), ethoxylated sorbitan mono-, di-and/or triesters of C₁₂-C₁₈ fatty acids having an average degree ofethoxylation of from about 2 to about 20, preferably from about 2 toabout 10, such as TWEEN 60 (sorbitan esters of stearic acid having anaverage degree of ethoxylation of about 20) and TWEEN 61 (sorbitanesters of stearic acid having an average degree of ethoxylation of about4), and the condensation products of aliphatic alcohols with from about1 to about 54 moles of ethylene oxide. The alkyl chain of the aliphaticalcohol is typically in a straight chain (linear) configuration andcontains from about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms. Particularly preferredare the condensation products of alcohols having an alkyl groupcontaining from about 11 to about 22 carbon atoms with from about 2 toabout 30 moles of ethylene oxide per mole of alcohol. Examples of suchethoxylated alcohols include the condensation products of myristytalcohol with 7 moles of ethylene oxide per mole of alcohol, thecondensation products of coconut alcohol (a mixture of fatty alcoholshaving alkyl chains varying in length from 10 to 14 carbon atoms) withabout 6 moles of ethylene oxide. A number of suitable ethoxylatedalcohols are commercially available, including TERGITOL 15-S-9 (thecondensation product of C₁₁-C₁₅ linear alcohols with 9 moles of ethyleneoxide), marketed by Union Carbide Corporation; KYRO EOB (condensationproduct of C₁₃-C₁₅ linear alcohols with 9 moles of ethylene oxide),marketed by The Procter & Gamble Co., the NEODOL brand name surfactantsmarketed by Shell Chemical Co., in particular NEODOL 25-12 (condensationproduct Of C₁₂-C₁₅ linear alcohols with 12 moles of ethylene oxide) andNEODOL 23-6.5T (condensation product of C₁₂-C₁₃ linear alcohols with 6.5moles of ethylene oxide that has been distilled (topped) to removecertain impurities), and especially the PLURAFAC brand name surfactantsmarketed by BASF Corp., in particular PLURAFAC A-38 (a condensationproduct of a C₁₈ straight chain alcohol with 27 moles of ethyleneoxide). (Certain of the hydrophilic surfactants, in particularethoxylated alcohols such as NEODOL 25-12, can also function as alkylethoxylate emollients). Other examples of preferred ethoxylated alcoholsurfactants include ICI's class of Brij surfactants and mixturesthereof, with Brij 72 (i.e., Steareth-2) and Brij 76 (i.e., Steareth-10)being especially preferred. Also, mixtures of cetyl alcohol and stearylalcohol ethoxylated to an average degree of ethoxylation of from about10 to about 20 may also be used as the hydrophilic surfactant.

[0111] Another type of suitable surfactant for use in the presentinvention includes Aerosol OT, a dioctyl ester of sodium sulfosuccinicacid marketed by American Cyanamid Company.

[0112] Still another type of suitable surfactant for use in the presentinvention includes silicone copolymers such as General Electric SF 1188(a copolymer of a polydimethylsiloxane and a polyoxyalkylene ether) andGeneral Electric SF 1228 (a silicone polyether copolymer). Thesesilicone surfactants can be used in combination with the other types ofhydrophilic surfactants discussed above, such as the ethoxylatedalcohols. These silicone surfactants have been found to be effective atconcentrations as low as 0.1%, more preferably from about 0.25 to about1.0%, by weight of the lotion composition.

[0113] The amount of hydrophilic surfactant required to increase thewettability of the lotion composition to a desired level will dependupon the HLB value and level of immobilizing agent used, the HLB valueof the surfactant used and like factors. The lotion composition cancomprise from about 1 to about 50% of the hydrophilic surfactant whenneeded to increase the wettability properties of the composition.Preferably, the lotion composition comprises from about 1 to about 25%,most preferably from about 10 to about 20%, of the hydrophilicsurfactant when needed to increase wettability.

[0114] 4. Other Optional Components

[0115] Lotion compositions can comprise other optional componentstypically present in emollient, creams, and lotions of this type. Theseoptional components include water, viscosity modifiers, perfumes,disinfectant antibacterial actives, pharmaceutical actives, filmformers, deodorants, opacifiers, astringents, solvents and the like. Inaddition, stabilizers can be added to enhance the shelf life of thelotion composition such as cellulose derivatives, proteins and lecithin.All of these materials are well known in the art as additives for suchformulations and can be employed in appropriate amounts in the lotioncompositions of the present invention.

[0116] C. Treating Diaper Topsheets with Lotion Composition

[0117] In preparing lotioned diaper products according to the presentinvention, the lotion composition is applied to the outer surface (i.e.,body facing surface) of a diaper topsheet. Any of a variety ofapplication methods that evenly distribute lubricious materials having amolten or liquid consistency can be used. Suitable methods includespraying, printing (e.g., flexographic printing), coating (e.g., gravurecoating), extrusion, or combinations of these application techniques,e.g. spraying the lotion composition on a rotating surface, such as acalender roll, that then transfers the composition to the outer surfaceof the diaper topsheet.

[0118] The manner of applying the lotion composition to the diapertopsheet should be such that the topsheet does not become saturated withthe lotion composition. If the topsheet becomes saturated with thelotion composition, there is a greater potential for the lotion to blockthe topsheet openings, reducing the ability of the topsheet to transmitfluid to the underlying absorbent core. Also, saturation of the topsheetis not required to obtain the therapeutic and/or protective lotionbenefits. Particularly suitable application methods will apply thelotion composition primarily to the outer surface of the diapertopsheet.

[0119] The minimum level of lotion to be applied to the diaper topsheetsis an amount effective for reducing the adherence of BM to the skin ofthe wearer. The lotion composition is preferably applied to the diapertopsheets of the present invention in an amount ranging from about 0.1mg/in² to about 25 mg/in² more preferably from about 1 mg/in² to about10 mg/in² (mg of lotion per square inch of coated topsheet). Because theemollient is substantially immobilized on the surface of the topsheet,less lotion composition is needed to impart the desired skin carebenefits. Such relatively low levels of lotion composition are adequateto impart the desired therapeutic and/or protective lotion benefits tothe topsheet, yet do not saturate the topsheet's absorbency and/orwettability properties.

[0120] The lotion composition may be applied to the entire surface ofthe topsheet or portions thereof. Preferably, the lotion composition isapplied in a stripe aligned with and centered on the longitudinalcenterline of the disposable absorbent article. Most preferably, asdescribed in the Examples hereinafter, the lotion composition is appliedto a discrete version of the topsheet, e.g., a 3.75 inch wide (diaperlateral direction) and 7 inch long (diaper longitudinal direction) patchgenerally disposed toward the second waist region.

[0121] The lotion composition can also be applied nonuniformly to theouter surface of the diaper topsheet. By “nonuniform” is meant that theamount, pattern of distribution, etc. of the lotion composition can varyover the topsheet surface. For example, some portions of the treatedsurface of the topsheet can have greater or lesser amounts of lotioncomposition, including portions of the surface that do not have anylotion composition on it.

[0122] The lotion composition can be applied to the topsheet at anypoint during assembly. For example, the lotion composition can beapplied to the topsheet of the finished disposable absorbent productbefore it has been packaged. The lotion composition can also be appliedto the topsheet before it is combined with the other raw materials toform a finished disposable absorbent product.

[0123] The lotion composition is typically applied from a melt thereofto the diaper topsheet. Since the lotion composition melts atsignificantly above ambient temperatures, it is usually applied as aheated coating to the topsheet. Typically, the lotion composition isheated to a temperature in the range from about 35° to about 100° C.,preferably from 40° to about 90° C., prior to being applied to thediaper topsheet. Once the melted lotion composition has been applied tothe diaper topsheet, it is allowed to cool and solidify to formsolidified coating or film on the surface of the topsheet. Preferably,the application process is designed to aid in the cooling/set up of thelotion.

[0124] In applying lotion compositions of the present invention todiaper topsheets, spraying, gravure coating and extrusion coatingmethods are preferred. FIG. 1 illustrates one such preferred methodinvolving spraying of the coating on the diaper topsheet before thetopsheet is assembled with the other raw materials into a finishedproduct. Referring to FIG. 1, a nonwoven topsheet web 1 is unwound fromparent topsheet roll 2 (rotating in the direction indicated by arrow 2a) and advanced to spray station 6 where one side of the web is sprayedwith a hot, molten (e.g., 65° C.) lotion composition. After leavingspray station 6, nonwoven topsheet web 1 becomes a lotioned topsheet webindicated by 3. Lotioned topsheet web 3 is then advanced around turningroll 4 and turning roll 8, and then wound up on lotioned topsheet parentroll 10 (rotating in the direction indicated by arrow 10 a).

[0125]FIG. 2 illustrates an alternative preferred method involvingcontinuous or intermittent spraying of the lotion composition on to adiaper topsheet during the converting operation. Referring to FIG. 2,conveyor belt 1 advances in the direction shown by the arrows on turningrolls 3 and 4 and becomes returning conveyor belt 2. Conveyor belt 1carries nonlotioned diaper 5 to spray station 6 where topsheet patch 7is sprayed with a hot, molten (e.g., 65° C.) lotion composition. Afterleaving spray station 6, nonlotioned diaper 5 becomes lotioned diaper 8having a lotioned topsheet. The amount of lotion composition transferredto topsheet patch 7 is controlled by: (1) the rate at which the moltenlotion composition is sprayed from spray station 6; and/or (2) the speedat which conveyor belt 1 travels under spray station 6.

SPECIFIC ILLUSTRATIONS OF THE PREPARATION OF LOTIONED DIAPER TOPSHEETSACCORDING TO THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0126] The following are specific illustrations of treating diapertopsheets with lotion compositions in accordance with the presentinvention:

EXAMPLE 1

[0127] A Preparation of Lotion Compositions

[0128] A water free lotion composition (Lotion A) is made by mixing thefollowing melted (i.e., liquid) components together Mineral Oil(Carnation White Mineral Oil, USP made by Witco Corp.), Cetearyl Alcohol(a mixed linear C₁₆-C₁₈ primary alcohol made by the Procter & GambleCompany under the name TA-1618); Steareth-2 (Brij 72, a C₁₈ linearalcohol ethoxylate having an average degree of ethoxylation of 2, madeby ICI America). The weight percentages of these components are shown inTable I below: TABLE I Component Weight % Mineral Oil 50 CetearylAlcohol 35 Steareth-2 15

[0129] B. Preparation of Lotioned Diaper Topsheet by Hot Melt Spraying

[0130] Lotion Composition A is placed into a heated tank operating at atemperature of 125° F. The composition is subsequently sprayed (using aDynatec E84B1758 spray head, operating at a temperature of 165° F. andan atomization pressure of 2.40 psig) onto the topsheet of a diaper in a3.75 inch wide (diaper lateral direction) and 7 inch long (diaperlongitudinal direction) area, the patch beginning 1 inch forward of thelateral centerline and extending toward the rear of the product. Add-onlevel=0.006 g/in² (9.3 g/m²).

EXAMPLE 2

[0131] The lotion composition A (prepared in accordance with theprocedure in Example 1) is subsequently sprayed onto the topsheet of adiaper in a 3.75 inch wide (diaper lateral direction) stripe centered onthe longitudinal centerline and extending the entire length of theproduct. Add-on level=0.006 g/in² (9.3 g/m²).

EXAMPLE 3

[0132] The lotion composition A (prepared in accordance with theprocedure in Example 1) is subsequently sprayed onto the topsheet of adiaper in a 3.75 inch wide (diaper lateral direction) stripe centered onthe longitudinal centerline and 7 inch long (diaper longitudinaldirection) area, the patch beginning 1 inch forward of the lateralcenterline and extending toward the rear of the product. Add-onlevel=0.003 g/in² (4.65 g/m²).

EXAMPLE 4

[0133] A Preparation of Lotion Compositions

[0134] A water free lotion composition (Lotion B) is made by mixing thefollowing melted (i.e., liquid) components together: Mineral Oil(Carnation White Mineral Oil, USP made by Witco Corp.), and CetearylAlcohol (a mixed linear C₁₆-C₁₈ primary alcohol made by the Procter &Gamble Company under the name TA-1618). The weight percentages of thesecomponents are shown in Table II below. TABLE II Component Weight %Mineral Oil 65 Cetearyl Alcohol 35

[0135] B. PreParation of Lotioned Tissue by Hot Melt Spraying

[0136] Lotion Composition B is placed into a heated tank operating at atemperature of 125° F. The composition is subsequently sprayed (using aDynatec E84B1758 spray head, operating at a temperature of 165° F. andan atomization pressure of 2.40 psig) onto the topsheet of a diaper in a3.75 inch wide (diaper lateral direction) and 7 inch long (diaperlongitudinal direction) area, the patch beginning 1 inch forward of thelateral centerline and extending toward the rear of the product. Add-onlevel=0.006 g/in² (9.3 g/m²).

EXAMPLE 5

[0137] A Preparation of Lotion Composition

[0138] A water free lotion composition (Lotion C) is made by mixing thefollowing melted (i.e., liquid) components together: White Protopet® 1S(white petrolatum made by Witco Corp.), Cetearyl Alcohol (a mixed linearC₁₆-C₁₈ primary alcohol made by the Procter & Gamble Company under thename TA-1618); Steareth-2 (Brij 762, a C₁₈ linear alcohol ethoxylatehaving an average degree of ethoxylation of 2 made by ICI America). Theweight percentages of these components are shown in Table I below:

[0139] A water free lotion composition (Lotion C) is made by mixingtogether the following melted (i.e., liquid) components in the weightpercentages shown in the Table III below according to the procedure ofExample 2: TABLE III Component Weight % WhiteProtopet ® 50 1S CetearylAlcohol 35 Steareth-2 15

[0140] B. Preparation of Lotioned Tissue by Hot Melt Spraying

[0141] Lotion Composition C is placed into a heated tank operating at atemperature of 125° F. The composition is subsequently sprayed (using aDynatec E84B1758 spray head, operating at a temperature of 165° F. andan atomization pressure of 2.40 psig) onto the topsheet of a diaper in a3.75 inch wide (diaper lateral direction) and 7 inch long (diaperlongitudinal direction) area, the patch beginning 1 inch forward of thelateral centerline and extending toward the rear of the product. Add-onlevel=0.006 g/in² (9.3 g/m²).

EXAMPLE 6

[0142] A. Preparation of Lotion Composition

[0143] A water free lotion composition (Lotion D) is made by mixing thefollowing melted (i.e., liquid) components together: White Protopet® 1S(white petrolatum made by Witco Corp.); Dow Corning 556 Cosmetic GradeFluid(a polyphenylmethylsiloxane made by the Dow Corning Corporation),An example of a particularly preferred paraffin wax is Parrafin S.P. 434(a paraffin wax made by Strahl and Pitsch Inc.); Cetearyl Alcohol (amixed linear C₁₆-C₁₈ primary alcohol made by the Procter & GambleCompany under the name TA-1618); PEG 2000 (a polyethylene glycol havinga MW of 2000 made by Sigma-Aldrich Corp). The weight percentages ofthese components are shown in Table IV below: TABLE IV Component Weight% WhiteProtopet ® 52 1S Polyphenylmethyl- 20 siloxane Paraffin Wax 15Cetearyl Alcohol 10 PEG 2000 3

[0144] B. PreDaration of Lotioned Tissue by Hot Melt Spraying

[0145] Lotion Composition D is placed into a heated tank operating at atemperature of 150° F. The composition is subsequently sprayed (using aDynatec E84B1758 spray head, operating at a temperature of 170° F. andan atomization pressure of 2.40 psig) onto the topsheet of a diaper in a3.75 inch wide (diaper lateral direction) and 7 inch long (diaperlongitudinal direction) area, the patch beginning 1 inch forward of thelateral centerline and extending toward the rear of the product. Add-onlevel=0.006 g/in² (9.3 g/m²).

What is claimed is:
 1. A disposable diaper comprising: A) a liquidimpervious backsheet; B) a liquid pervious, hydrophilic topsheet joinedto said backsheet, said topsheet having an inner surface oriented towardthe interior of said diaper and an outer surface oriented toward theskin of the wearer when said diaper is being worn, wherein at least aportion of said topsheet outer surface comprises an effective amount ofa lotion coating which is semi-solid or solid at 20° C. and which ispartially transferable to the wearer's skin, said lotion coatingcomprising: (i) from about 10 to about 95% of a substantially water freeemollient having a plastic or fluid consistency at 20° C. and comprisinga member selected from the group consisting of petroleum-basedemollients, fatty acid ester emollients, alkyl ethoxylate emollients,and mixtures thereof; (ii) from about 5 to about 90% of an agent capableof immobilizing said emollient on said outer surface of the topsheet,said immobilizing agent having a melting point of at least about 35° C.;and C) an absorbent core positioned between said topsheet and saidbacksheet.
 2. The disposable diaper of claim 1 wherein said immobilizingagent is selected from the group consisting of polyhydroxy fatty acidesters, polyhydroxy fatty acid amides, C₁₄-C₂₂ fatty alcohols, C₁₂-C₂₂fatty acids, C₁₂-C₂₂ fatty alcohol ethoxylates, and mixtures thereof. 3.The disposable diaper of claim 2 wherein said emollient contains about5% or less water and comprises a petroleum based emollient selected fromthe group consisting of mineral oil, petrolatum, and mixtures thereof.4. The disposable diaper of claim 3 wherein said emollient ispetrolatum.
 5. The disposable diaper of claim 4 wherein said emollientis mineral oil.
 6. The disposable diaper of claim 1 wherein the quantityof lotion coating on said portion of said topsheet outer surface rangesfrom about 0.1 mg/in² to about 25 mg/in².
 7. The disposable diaper ofclaim 6 wherein the quantity of lotion coating on said portion of saidtopsheet outer surface ranges from about 1 mg/in² to about 10 mg/in². 8.The disposable diaper of claim 1 wherein said emollient comprises afatty acid ester emollient selected from the group consisting of methylpalmitate, methyl stearate, isopropyl laurate, isopropyl myristate,isopropyl palmitate, ethylhexyl palmitate, lauryl lactate and cetyllactate, and mixtures thereof.
 9. The disposable diaper of claim 1wherein said emollient comprises an alkyl ethoxylate emollient selectedfrom the group consisting of C₁₂-C₁₈ fatty alcohol ethoxylates having anaverage degree of ethoxylation ranging from about 2 to about
 30. 10. Thedisposable diaper of claim 1 wherein said lotion coating comprises fromabout 5 to about 50% of said immobilizing agent, said immobilizing agenthaving a melting point of at least about 40° C.
 11. The disposablediaper of claim 10 wherein said immobilizing agent comprises a C₁₄-C₂₂fatty alcohol.
 12. The disposable diaper of claim 11 wherein saidimmobilizing agent comprises a C₁₆-C₁₈ fatty alcohol selected from thegroup consisting of cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and mixturesthereof.
 13. The disposable diaper of claim 10 wherein said immobilizingagent comprises a polyhydroxy fatty acid ester having the formula:

wherein R is a C₅-C₃₁ hydrocarbyl group; Y is a polyhydroxyhydrocarbylmoiety having a hydrocarbyl chain with at least 2 free hydroxylsdirectly connected to the chain; and n is at least
 1. 14. The disposablediaper of claim 13 wherein said immobilizing agent comprises apolyhydroxy fatty acid ester selected from the group consisting ofsorbitan esters of C₁₆-C₂₂ saturated fatty acids, glyceryl monoesters ofC₁₆-C₂₂ saturated fatty acids, and sucrose esters of C₁₂-C₂₂ saturatedfatty acids.
 15. The disposable diaper of claim 14 wherein saidimmobilizing agent comprises a polyhydroxy fatty acid ester selectedfrom the group consisting of sorbitan palmitates, sorbitan stearates,sorbitan behenates, glyceryl monostearate, glyceryl monopalmitate,glyceryl monobehenate, sucrose mono- and di-stearate, and sucrose mono-and di-laurate.
 16. The disposable diaper of claim 15 wherein saidimmobilizing agent comprises sorbitan stearates.
 17. The disposablediaper of claim 10 wherein said immobilizing agent comprises apolyhydroxy fatty acid amide having the formula:

wherein R¹ is H, C₁-C₄ hydrocarbyl, 2-hydroxyethyl, 2-hydroxypropyl,methoxyethyl, methoxypropyl or a mixture thereof; R² is a C₅-C₃₁hydrocarbyl group; and Z is a polyhydroxyhydrocarbyl moiety having alinear hydrocarbyl chain with at least 3 hydroxyls directly connected tothe chain.
 18. The disposable diaper of claim 17 wherein R¹ is N-methyl,N-ethyl, N-propyl, N-isopropyl, N-butyl, N-2-hydroxyethyl,N-methoxypropyl or N-2-hydroxypropyl; R² is straight chain C₁₁-C₁₇ alkylor alkenyl, or mixture thereof; and Z is glycityl.
 19. The disposablediaper of claim 18 wherein said immobilizing agent comprises apolyhydroxy fatty acid amide selected from the group consisting ofN-lauryl-N-methyl glucamide, N-lauryl-N-methoxypropyl glucamide,N-cocoyl-N-methyl glucamide, N-cocoyl-N-methoxypropyl glucamide,N-palmityl-N-methoxypropyl glucamide, N-tallowyl-N-methyl glucamide, andN-tallowyl-N-methoxypropyl glucamide.
 20. The disposable diaper of claim10 wherein said immobilizing agent comprises a paraffin wax.
 21. Thedisposable diaper of claim 1 wherein said lotion coating furthercomprises from about 1 to about 50% of a hydrophilic surfactant, saidhydrophilic surfactant having an HLB value of at least about
 4. 22. Thedisposable diaper of claim 21 wherein said lotion coating furthercomprises from about 1 to about 25% of said hydrophilic surfactant, saidhydrophilic surfactant being nonionic and having an HLB value of fromabout 4 to about
 20. 23. The disposable diaper of claim 22 wherein saidhydrophilic surfactant comprises an ethoxylated alcohol having an alkylchain of from about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms and having an averagedegree of ethoxylation ranging from about 1 to about
 54. 24. Thedisposable diaper of claim 23 wherein said ethoxylated alcohol has analkyl chain of from about 11 to about 22 carbon atoms and having anaverage degree of ethoxylation ranging from about 2 to about
 30. 25. Thedisposable diaper of claim 24 wherein said hydrophilic surfactantcomprises an ethoxylated sorbitan ester of a C₁₂-C₁₈ fatty acid havingan average degree of ethoxylation of from about 2 to about 20.